A GEORGE IV MAHOGANY QUADRUPLE PEDESTAL PARTNERS DESK, SECOND QUARTER 19TH CENTURY |

the leather-inset top with four opposing mechanically raised slopes with two lignum vitae and brass winding keys, with four drawers to one side of each pedestal and conforming dummy drawers

Acquired by Smith, Payne & Smith for the Partners Room at their new premises, 1 Lombard Street, London, circa 1835;
Lindsay Eric Smith (1852-1930) who was a partner of that bank and later at the Union of London & Smiths Bank Ltd.;
or his son Evan Cadogan Smith MC (1894-1950) who was chairman of the National Provincial Bank which had absorbed Union of London & Smiths Bank Ltd.;
then to his son Sir John Smith

In 'Country House' condition, This desk shows much wear from its working life at Smiths banks. It also has been exposed to sunlight which has affected surface colour notably to one side. The leather top with wear and distress again from use. Interestingly this was replaced in March 1958 by Mallets for Sir John as were the brass handles. There are losses to some veneers and cock-beading throughout. One push-button closing mechanism for tor one slope is lacking. With residual dirt. There are scuffs and scratches throughout and some areas of re-polishing. The timber is dry in places. There are losses to brass fittings including handles and handle backs. Variations to locks, some period and some later in date. One drawer with two circular filled apertures. Scuffs and separations to the skirting of each pedestal base. A lovely old thing which exhibits much wear from age and use.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This desk, the portrait (lot 46) and the chairs (lot 47) are depicted in an etching of the Partners Room at Smith, Payne & Smith by Giffard Lenfestey from 1906.